Underage youngsters still buying booze

ALCOHOL was sold to an underage youngster in three North West Leicestershire pubs during a test purchase operation.

Over a two day period pubs and off-licences in Ashby and Measham were visited by a 16-year-old girl who attempted to buy beer or lager without showing identification.

Of the eight premises visited, three failed the test purchase and sold alcohol to the youngster.

Sergeant Mark Watson who is the licensing lead for North West Leicestershire Local Policing Unit say said: “This operation was organised by police following consultation with Trading Standards and although the overall results are pleasing there are still a minority of licensed premises staff who are not taking the time to ask for identification.

“Selling alcohol to any person under the age of 18 years is a criminal offence and we hope this operation will serve as a reminder to all those selling alcohol to be proactive in asking for identification in the future.

Formal letters are being sent Tescos, Measham, and The Lamb public house, and Ciro’s night-club, both in Ashby, who all passed.